For Hermès, what began as a maker of leather equestrian goods for European noblemen would eventually grow into one of the most storied fashion labels in the world. In 1837, German-born French entrepreneur Thierry Hermès opened a saddle and harness purveyor in Paris. Gradually, the house extended into accessories and luggage for its riders, and today, in paying homage to its origins, the family-run luxury brand resurfaces horse motifs in everything from clothing and modernist jewelry to pillows and handbags.
The first top-handled bag ever produced by Hermès was the Haut à courroies, which made its debut in 1892. A tall bag secured with a folded leather flap (fastened with bridle-inspired straps), it was designed to transport riding boots and a harness.
As the world made the switch from horse to automobile, the bag adapted, becoming a multifunctional travel satchel instead of a designated saddlebag. Today, 120 years later, the HAC remains in Hermès’s line — and its distinctive flap and clasping straps have laid the groundwork for some of the house’s other iconic bags.
In the 1930s, Robert Dumas (son-in-law to Émile-Maurice Hermès, Thierry’s grandson) designed a smaller, trapezoidal take on the flap bag with a handle and two side straps. Later, actress Grace Kelly, then engaged to Prince Rainier of Monaco, is said to have used one of these bags to conceal her pregnancy during the 1950s. Because she was photographed constantly, the coverage catapulted her handbag to international popularity.
In 1977, Hermès officially renamed the model for her, and the Kelly bag was born. Each Kelly bag takes between 18 and 25 hours to produce, and its 680 hand stitches owe solely to one Hermès artisan.
Robert Dumas was also responsible for another one of the brand’s most iconic offerings: the launch of its first silk scarf on the occasion of Hermès’s 100th anniversary in 1937. Based on a woodblock designed by Dumas and printed on Chinese silk, the accessory was an immediate hit.
Today, vintage Hermès scarves, typically adorned in rich colors and elaborate patterns, serve many functions, just as they did back then. Well-heeled women wear it on their heads, around their necks and, in a genius piece of cross-promotion, tied to the straps of their Hermès bags. Kelly even once used one as a sling for her broken arm.
In 1981, Robert Dumas’s son Jean-Louis Dumas, then Hermès chairman, found himself sitting next to French actress and musician Jane Birkin on a plane, where she was complaining about finding a suitable carryall for the necessary accoutrements of motherhood. After the two travelers were properly introduced, Birkin helped design Jean-Louis’s most famous contribution to the Hermès canon: the Birkin bag, a roomy, square catchall with the HAC’s trademark leather flap top and the addition of a lock and key.
Owing to the brand’s legendary commitment to deft, handcrafted construction, the Birkin is an investment that is coveted by collectors everywhere.
While the Kelly and Birkin may be standouts, gracing the arms of everyone from royal heiresses to hip-hop stars in the past few decades, the handbags are but a small part of Hermès’s fashion offerings.
Since the 1920s, the brand has produced some of the most desirable leather goods in the world. There’s the Constance bag, a favorite of Jacqueline Kennedy, the recently relaunched 1970s-era Evelyne and, on the vintage market, a slew of designs dating back to the 1920s.
Good design never goes out of style. Find a variety of vintage Hermès handbags, day dresses, shoes and more on 1stDibs.
HERMES Fauve brown Barenia leather 2011 BELTED BUSTIER Top Shirt 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier bustier top is crafted in Fauve (cognac brown) Barenia calfskin leather with signature contrast white stitching. Designed in a struct...
Hermes Rose Quartz Double Faced Cashmere Cape Fit Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, superbly crafted Hermes cashmere jacket. New with tags. Made from the highest quality Rose Quartz pink double faced cashmere with burgundy leather trims. It has a loose,...
Vintage HERMES Paris Mink Jacket with printed Scarf Silk Lining
By Hermès
Located in Amsterdam, NL
This vintage unique jacket 1980's is made of brown mink with silk Hermes lining Rare to find Look at our storefront for more luxurious vintage items. Details: Lined with Hermes sil...
Hermès 1990s Veste Soie Insectes FR38 Ecru Silk Twill Jacket UK10 US8 Hermes
By Hermès, Hugo Grygkar
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès long jacket circa 1990 in ecru silk twill with the Insectes print by Hugo Grygkar & La Torre (first produced in 1958), notched collar fastened with three mother-of-pearl butto...
HERMES black leather MEDOR LOAFER Pumps Shoes 38.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès Medor loafer-style platform pumps are crafted from black brushed leather, offering a refined blend of sophistication and modern edge. The design features ...
Hermes Rouge Cornaline Double Faced Cashmere Jacket
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
Ultra luxe, superbly coloured Hermes double faced cashmere jacket. New with tags. Made from the highest quality double faced cashmere in the richest orangey red - official colours i...
Hermès Veste Caban FR34 Black Wool Whipcord Oversized Pea Coat UK6 US4 Hermes
By Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès oversized pea coat in thick black whipcord wool, notched collar with double-breasted button closure, Hermès logo buttons in blackened silver-tone metal and black leather, two ...
Hermès – Camicia Vintage in Cotone “Écuries / Scuderie” – Anni ’80
By Hermès
Located in Basaluzzo, IT
Camicia Hermès Paris autentica, realizzata in Francia, in morbido 100% cotone con l’iconica stampa equestre della Maison. Il motivo raffigura una scena di scuderie, con cavalli sella...
Hermès 1980's Blue Ostrich Leather Vest, Rare
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Exquisitely luxurious Hermès ostrich leather vest in a beautiful shade of faded wedgewood blue. The vest is lined in blue with logo etched horn ...
Hermès Swimsuit One piece Swimwear Bibliothèque Bookshelf Print Size M
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Beautiful Authentic Hermès Swimsuit One piece Print "Bibliothèque" (Bookshelf) Pattern: Books Made in France Colorways: White, Yellow, Grey, Black Size: 40 FR / M Condition: New condition. Washed then never worn. No Hermès Packaging This swimsuit is garanteed authentic and will be shipped immediately Thank you for watching...
HERMES Fauve brown Barenia leather 2011 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier jacket is crafted in rich Fauve (cognac brown) Barenia calfskin leather with signature contrasting white saddle stitching. Designed i...
$1,980Sale Price|31% Off
Hermes Men's Buttery Soft Black Lambskin Leather Unisex Coat Size 54 c 21st c
By Hermès
Located in University City, MO
Hermes Men's buttery soft black lambskin leather unisex coat French Size 54 The luxurious coat is constructed with smooth very soft black lambskin leather Lined in black Bemberg ra...
HERMES black leather 2010 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier blazer is crafted in black grained deerskin leather and tailored into a sharp, fitted silhouette. Designed with notched lapels, a che...
HERMES Gold camel brown leather ORAN Slide Sandals Shoes 41.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Oran slide sandals in Gold (camel) Box calfskin leather epitomize timeless elegance and effortless style. Featuring the iconic H cut-out, these sleek slide...
HERMES black 2020 SHORT LEATHER Jacket 34 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès jacket in black goatskin leather. Features a refined, straight-cut silhouette with a short, structured length that delivers a sleek, modern profile, complemente...
Hermes "Raconte-moi le Cheval" Rocking Horse Silk Twill Women's Vest
By Hermès
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Vintage Hermes "Raconte-moi le Cheval" Rocking Horse Silk vest. This vintage "Raconte Moi le Cheval" (Tell Me About the Horse) vest has an equestrian theme, with colorful rocking ho...
Hermes, leather dress with belt
By Hermès
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Hermes, leather dress with belt. Comes with dustbag and hanger.
HERMES ebony brown leather 2010 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier blazer is crafted in ebony brown grained deerskin leather and tailored into a sharp, fitted silhouette. Designed with notched lapels,...
Hermès Large Terry Towel Golf Clubs and Balls Embroidered
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Hermès Towel Embroidered with a coat of arms featuring two crossed golf clubs with a ball at their end Made in France Vintage item from the "EXCLUSIF" Hermès...
HERMES black leather 2023 FRENCHIE 50 Ankle Boots Shoes 37.5 fit 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Frenchie 50 ankle boots in black calfskin leather blend classic craftsmanship with a modern edge. Featuring rounded toes, block heels, and thicker soles, t...
HERMES sage green cashmere SHAWL COLLAR Jacket 34 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès shawl collar jacket in pale sage cashmere (100%) with side slit pockets. Closes on the front with a midnight blue lambskin me...
HERMES brown suede EMBROIDERED CRUSADER Knee High Platform Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high boots in dark brown featuring a stacked heel, black complementing zigzag embroidery and a fold-over top. Open with an inner-zipper. Have been worn wit...
Hermès silk jersey dress by Robert Dumas 1965-1970s
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - A ready-to-wear Collection circa 1965-1970 under the direction of Robert Dumas. Red silk jersey long-sleeved dress with a front hook fastening. Composition and size labels m...
HERMES beige 2015 MINK FUR Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès collarless jacket in beige mink fur (100%). Fall/winter 2015. Features raglan sleeves (sleeve measurements taken from the neck) and two slit pockets on the fron...
Hermes 1970s Dress with Lace up Back
By Hermès
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous black polished cotton dress from Hermes. It is sleeveless with a crew neckline, button front closure to the waist, hip pockets, and...
HERMES red & pink leather LTD ED JUMPING Knee High Flat Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès 'Jumping Limited Edition' boots in red and pink box leather. Brand new. Comes with box and dust bag. Measurements Imprinted Size 38 Sh...
HERMES black deerskin leather Bomber Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Paris Bomber jacket in black deer skin leather (100%) with a ripped collar in black silk (48%), cotton (36%), polyamid...
HERMES Rouge Grenat suede ANJOU PLATFROM ANKLE STRAP Sandals Shoes 37
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Anjou platform sandals are crafted in Rouge Grenat red, burgundy, nude, and hot pink suede for a bold, multi-tonal finish. They feature peep toes, high blo...
Hermes Womens Oran Shearling Sandals Size US 8.5 38.5 Rose Du Desert Pink
By Hermès
Located in Miami, FL
- Rose pink exterior - Tagged size 38.5 in the brand - No box Condition: The sandals are in overall great condition with no major imperfections, the insole does have light in...
HERMES black leather CRUSADER Knee High Platform Boots Shoes 38
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès knee-high crusader boots in smooth black calfskin featuring a stacked heel and a fold-over top. Open with an inner-zipper. Have been worn and are in excellent c...
HERMES black leather TIPOLI Wedge Espadrille Sandals Shoes 41 fit 40
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Tipoli espadrille wedge sandals in smooth Noir goatskin with iconic Palladium plated buckle, wrap-around ankle strap and natural rope heel. Brand new. Measure...
Hermes shirt 'Tanzania' Spring-Summer 1997
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) Aqua-green silk shirt with the 'Tanzania' theme designed by Robert Dallet. Size label missing, it fits a 38FR. 1997 Spring-Summer ready-to-wear Collection u...
Rare Vintage Hermes Henri de Linares Plumes Print Silk Front Turtleneck Sweater
By Hermès
Located in San Francisco, CA
Very rare vintage Hermes Paris Cream knit long sleeve turtleneck sweater with ivory silk scarf print front featuring green, gold, and brown feathers. Front bottom reads PLUMES, par Henri de Linares, HERMES-PARIS. 100% silk front with 100% wool fine knit. Labelled FR 38, seems to best fit an XS/S. Shown on size 2 dress...
HERMES Brun Fume brown suede STORY 70 KELLY Boots Shoes 37
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Story 70 boot is crafted in Brun Fumé (camel brown) suede. It features round toes, knee-high shafts, and a slim strap at the top finished with the iconic K...
Hermes "Le Monde Du Polo" Silk Print Vest circa 1980s
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This circa 1980s Hermes "Le Monde Du Polo" silk print vest is a striking example of vintage luxury and equestrian-inspired design. Crafted from high-quality silk, the vest features a...
Hermès Set Twillaine FR40 Margiela Grey Silk Cashmere Ensemble UK12 US10 Hermes
By Maison Martin Margiela, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès Fall/Winter 1999 collection ensemble by Martin Margiela, Twillaine style, featuring the "Feux de l'Hiver" (Winter Fires) motif by Christiane Vauzelles (a motif originally rele...
Hermes Camel Cashmere Jumper
By Hermès
Located in Paris, FR
Hermes 1980s camel cashmere jumper featuring a horse-head motif, a round turtle neck, long sleeves. Composition: 100% cashmere Label size 38fr/US6 /UK10 In good vintage condition. Ma...
HERMES black leather Band Collar Quilted Shoulder BIKER Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
Hermès band-collar biker jacket in midnight blue lambskin with knit waistband on the back in midnight blue viscose (75%) and nylon (25%). Features a quilted storm flap on the left sh...
HERMES black yellow blue silk CARRE CUBE Turtleneck Sweater 40 M
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès Carre Cube turtleneck sweater in black, petrol, mustard and grey silk (100%). Has been worn and the fabric in the armpits has slightly brightened. Overall in ve...
$1,160Sale Price|20% Off
HERMES black viscose OPEN BACK HALTER SLEEVELESS CREPE Jumpsuit 36 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Hermès halter neck wide leg open back jumpsuit in black viscose (100%). Closes with a concealed zipper and one hook in the back. Unlined. ...
Hermes shirt top by Jean-Louis Dumas
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - 1994 ready-to-wear Collection under the direction of Jean-Louis Dumas. Transparent lace-like blended cotton shirt. Size label missing, it fits a 40FR. Made in France. Condi...
Hermes 1980 Top Pull Twillaine FR38 Les clés Twillaine Silk wool Sweater US8
By Cathy Latham, Hermès
Located in PARIS, FR
Hermès turtleneck sweater from the Twillaine series in ecru wool, front in silk twill with Les clefs motif by Cathy Latham (published in 1965 then 1980 - like this sweater and finall...
Hermès dress ready-to-wear by Catherine de Karolyi circa 1970
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - A ready-to-wear Collection circa 1970 under the artistic direction of Catherine de Karolyi. Long red jersey dress with an ascot tie and an interlaced-cord pattern in gray an...
HERMES taupe leather 2010 Blazer Jacket 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès by Jean Paul Gaultier blazer is crafted in taupe-brown grained deerskin leather and tailored into a sharp, fitted silhouette. Designed with notched lapels,...
Hermes indoor coat 'Library' 2008s
By Hermès
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
HERMÈS - (Made in France) Silk indoor coat with the 'Library' theme designed by Hugo Grygkar, bottom of the coat edged with multicolored fringes, matching belt. Size 40FR indicated. ...
HERMES Black Crocodile Men's Jacket RARE CUSTOM MADE
By Hermès
Located in Philadelphia, PA
HERMES Black Crocodile Men's Jacket in like-new excellent condition. This is a very rare find from Hermes as it was custom made for a Royal in Dubai. You won't find anything like it online on in stores. Black semi matte crocodile leather exterior trimmed with silver hardware. Full front zipper closure. Two zippered side pockets. Zipper slits upon bottom hem of each arm. Black bemberg lining with small Hermes logo woven throughout. Interior breast pockets with button closures. This piece exudes classic Hermes style with flawless lines, body shape and of course impeccable construction utilizing the most luxurious crocodile leather available. Very subtle sheen to the crocodile skin which only contributes to the timeless design of this piece. Perfect for men & women. Excellent condition. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of Hermes history with this custom made crocodile jacket...
HERMES anthracite grey cashmere Sweater Vest 38 S
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès cashmere sweater vest in anthracite is crafted from luxuriously soft cashmere and designed with a refined, minimalist silhouette. The piece is subtly eleva...
HERMES cashmere silk blend green blue border trompe loeil crewneck sweater
By Hermès
Located in Hong Kong, NT
HERMES cashmere silk blend green blue border trompe loeil crewneck sweater Reference: TGAS/F00468 Brand: Hermes Material: Cashmere, Silk Color: Green, Blue Pattern: Solid Closure: Pu...
HERMES brown silk LEOPARD PLEATED MAXI Skirt 36 XS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès pleated maxi skirt is a striking blend of elegance and bold design. Featuring a distinctive leopard print in beige, brown, and purple, it’s crafted from a ...
Hermès Set of 2 Towels Golf Clubs and Balls Embroidered
By Hermès
Located in Corcoué Sur Logne, Loire-Atlantique
Exceptional Authentic Set of 2 Hermès Towels This rare set includes 2 towels embroidered with a coat of arms featuring two crossed golf clubs with a ball...
Hermes "Limited Edition" "Native American Tribal" Silk Jacquard Shirt
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Wonderfully detailed "Limited Edition" "Native American Tribal" silk jacquard button shirt has a optional matching silk jacquard tie measuring 51 inches by 2 1/2 inches. ...
Hermès by Martin Margiela Vintage Circa (1997-2003) Wool Dress
By Maison Martin Margiela, Hermès
Located in Antwerpen, Vlaams Gewest
Hermès by Martin Margiela Vintage Circa (1997-2003) Wool Dress Martin Margiela served as Hermès’ creative director for women’s ready-to-wear, shaping 12 iconic and unforgettable coll...
Hermes Suede and Heather Knit Vest
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermes Rust Suede and Heather Ribbed Knit Vest suitable for men or women. Easy slash pockets with button front. length 25", Bust 42", 34" waist. Vintage...
Vintage Cream Hermes V-Neck Cashmere Sweater Vest
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Vintage cream cashmere sweater vest by Hermes. V-neck. 28" bust, 12.75" shoulder width, 19.5" length.
Hermes H Cashmere & Leather Coat
By Hermès
Located in London, GB
The luxest ever Hermes H cashmere and leather coat. Bought for £9500 and worn once. Made from incredibly soft cream cashmere with tan deerskin H detailing. It has a timeless, slight...
HERMES Rouge H red wool ROCABAR LEATHER TRIM PONCHO Jacket OS
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Hermès Rocabar Poncho in Rouge H is a luxurious tribute to the house’s equestrian heritage. Crafted from a premium blend of 90% Merino wool and 10% cashmere, it f...
Hermès Yellow Race Car Print Silk Vest circa 1980s
By Hermès
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Hermès Yellow Race Car Print Silk Vest from the circa 1980s is a striking example of the brand’s luxurious craftsmanship and bold design sensibility. Crafted from high-quality silk, ...
Early 2000's Hermes By Martin Margiela Black Padded Leather Jacket
By Hermès
Located in Toronto, Ontario
From Martin Margiela’s time at Hermès (1997–2003), this black padded leather jacket exemplifies the discreet sophistication that defined his vision for the house. Made from supple It...
HERMES black leather LOAFER STYLE Pumps Shoes 37.5
By Hermès
Located in Zürich, CH
These 100% authentic Hermès loafer-style pumps are crafted from smooth black leather, blending timeless sophistication with everyday versatility. The design features a classic almond...
Hermès Chinchilla Fur Coat (size 8) ~no duties
By Hermès
Located in Montreal, Quebec
Hermes natural Grey Chinchilla Fur full length coat Short collar, straight sleeves, dual seam pockets at hips and German hook-and-eye closures at front Made in France SIZE 8 (eq...
Epsom is a stamped or embossed calf leather (as opposed to being a grained leather like Togo or Clemence, or a smooth leather like Swift or Box). It is lightweight and stiff; thus Epsom is known for its ability to retain structure over time. Epsom is the primary leather used to make Sellier Kelly and Birkin bags which feature outside stitching on its edges which result in a crisp and sharp line. Epsom is more rain-resistant than other calf leathers.
Select Hermes goods go on sale twice a year in Paris, but Birkins – being highly coveted–are not known to be found at the sale.